At Dandy Blend, we’ve made it clear that the dandelion plant is so much more than a pesky weed found on lawns and in gardens. To us, and many parts of the world, it’s actually a treasure trove of culinary and medicinal possibilities that should be enjoyed from flower to root.
Each part of this vibrant plant has a purpose—the greens, the root, and the flowers. Each section offers unique and valuable properties that have been utilized for centuries. Today, we’re sharing one way you can use each part of the plant for cooking, tea, and tinctures.
*Image by bearfotos
Salted Greens
Dandelion greens are rich in vitamins and minerals, and make a great addition to any meal. The leaves have a mild, slightly bitter flavor, which makes them great for digestive support. They’re delicious in salads, sautés, and stir-fries.
To make salted greens, you’ll need to start by washing and drying the greens. Simply heat a pan over low to medium heat with some extra virgin olive oil, add your greens, then add a generous amount of flaky sea salt until slightly wilted. Serve alongside your favorite dish or as an appetizer with some crushed nuts and cheese on top.
Dandelion Root Tea
Roasted dandelion root has a robust flavor that serves as a comparable caffeine-free alternative to coffee. Hence the roasted dandelion root extract in our delicious Dandy Blend.
To prepare a homemade dandelion root tea, you’ll start by harvesting the roots, preferably mature roots for the best flavor and potency. Scrub and wash them under cool water to remove the dirt, using a soft brush if necessary. Once clean, lay the roots out to dry in a warm, dry location or a dehydrator. Next, roast the roots in the oven at its lowest temperature (about 200°F). They should turn a darker color and have a rich aroma. You can leave the roots intact or grind them up before brewing. Steep about one tablespoon per cup of water for about 5 to 10 minutes. Enjoy as is or add sweetener and milk of choice for a sweeter beverage. If you don’t have time to harvest, you can add half the amount of Dandy Blend powder that you usually use to hot water for a tea-like beverage.
Flower Tincture
Dandelion flowers are the most well-known part of the plant for their beautiful, vibrant color. It’s said the petals may provide potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making them a great plant for tincturing. You’ll want to start with clean, dry flowers, then add them to a glass jar. Add a grain alcohol of about 150 proof or higher until the flowers are completely covered. Seal the jar tightly and store in a cool, dark place for a minimum of two weeks—giving it a light shake every few days. Once ready, strain the tincture through a mesh sieve or cheesecloth, discarding the flowers. Transfer the tincture to a glass dropper and store in a cool place for several months.
We hope you enjoyed learning about how to use dandelions from flower to root. Please tag us on Instagram if you try any of these recipes.
Happy Sipping!
To shop Dandy Blend and all our dandy offers, visit www.DandyBlend.com/shop.
*Disclaimer
Dandy Blend is not a supplement or medicine. Any health related questions or concerns, we always recommend consulting with your primary care physician.
*Banner image by freepik
